A wave of surprise and heartbreak hit Utah’s indie music scene on Wednesday as The National Parks, one of the state’s most beloved indie-folk bands, announced a major lineup change.
In an emotional Instagram post, the Provo-born band shared that Sydney Macfarlane and Cam Brannelly are leaving the group, marking the end of an era for the quartet that has been together since 2013. The band will move forward as a duo — Brady and Megan Taylor Parks, who are also married.
A Split That Shocked Fans
“This isn’t easy to say, but the four of us — Meg, Brady, Syd and Cam — won’t be continuing as a band together,” the band’s post read. While the announcement didn’t include a reason for the separation, it assured fans that the group would continue creating music with a “new setup.”
The response was immediate and emotional. Fans filled the comments with messages of sadness, support, and speculation. Some expressed confusion, wondering if internal tensions were behind the change.
Macfarlane later took to her personal Instagram to share her feelings, describing the past few months as “emotional and unexpected.” Drummer Brannelly echoed the sentiment in his own post, writing, “While unexpected, this feels like the right direction.”
A Decade of Utah-Born Folk Success
Formed in Provo in 2013, The National Parks became a cornerstone of Utah’s indie-folk movement. Their sound — a blend of lush harmonies, acoustic warmth, and a deep love for nature — earned them a loyal fan base well beyond state lines. Over the past decade, they’ve released seven studio albums, with their 2024 record praised for its heartfelt storytelling and scenic soundscapes inspired by Utah’s outdoors.
What’s Next for The National Parks
Despite the split, the band confirmed it will still perform as part of Ben Rector’s upcoming concert at the Delta Center on November 15, introducing fans to their new configuration.
While longtime followers mourn the departure of two key members, others are eager to see how the duo reimagines the group’s signature sound. For many fans, The National Parks has always represented connection — to the mountains, to music, and to one another — and they hope that spirit continues to guide the band’s next chapter.
